Shoei NXR 3 Matt Black

The Shoei NXR 3 is the successor to the NXR 2: a sporty full-face helmet for the street, for riders who want a compact, light and quiet helmet for sporty riding, touring and daily use. Shoei has brought together everything it learned from its racing and touring helmets and then stripped away everything that is not needed.

The outer shell is made of AIM+, Shoei's Advanced Integrated Matrix Plus: multiple layers of fibreglass and organic fibres that together form a strong yet light shell. The shell comes in five sizes, so the helmet stays compact at every head size. Inside sits a multi-density EPS liner, so each part of the helmet absorbs the impact that suits it. The helmet is ECE 22.06 approved, closes with a double-D ring fastener and has the Emergency Quick Release System, which lets first responders remove the cheek pads quickly after a fall.

The shape of the NXR 3 was defined in the wind tunnel. The result is a helmet that stays stable at higher speeds and is remarkably quiet. The ventilation has been redesigned, with six inlets on the chin and brow and four outlets at the rear. The shutters are larger, so you can operate them with thick gloves. The inner lining has a 3D-shaped centre pad and ear pads, and is fully removable and washable. Cheek pads are available separately in four thicknesses, so you can fine-tune the fit to your face.

The CWR-F2 visor has an enlarged locking mechanism that is easy to use and an additional slightly open position that prevents fogging and lets more air through. A Pinlock lens is included. The helmet has recesses for a communication system. The NXR 3 has no sun visor; if you want one, choose the GT-Air 3.